Playing 413 international matches is no easy feat, but Manpreet Singh achieved it on Wednesday as India defeated Germany 3-1 in the FIH Pro League in Rotterdam. This milestone helped him surpass Dilip Tirkey's long-standing record of 412 appearances, making him the highest-capped Indian player in hockey history.
To reach this landmark, Manpreet had to make significant sacrifices, including precious time with his family.
"There have been many sacrifices. I have spent long periods away from my family. I missed important moments in my children’s lives — their first steps, their first words and many memorable milestones," said Manpreet, a father of two, during a virtual press conference on Thursday. "But representing India has always been my dream. When I look back at the journey now, all those sacrifices feel worthwhile."
Although he couldn't be there for these special moments, his two children have been a constant source of inspiration. "My children are a huge source of motivation. Hearing them say they are proud of me gives me extra motivation to perform for India," added the former India captain, who led the team to their first Olympic medal in Tokyo after a 41-year gap.
Manpreet also credited his wife, Illi Saddique, whom he met in 2012 and married ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. "My wife has stood by me through every high and low, including the loss of my father in 2016," said the 33-year-old. "She is very honest about my performances and always encourages me to improve. She has taken care of our family while I have been away competing."
While his family provided support off the field, Manpreet acknowledges the influence of teammates and seniors in shaping his career over nearly 15 years. "I have been fortunate to play with many legends — Sandeep Singh, Sardar Singh, Gurbaj Singh, Rupinder Pal Singh, SV Sunil and many others," added the midfielder from Mithapur village near Jalandhar, Punjab. "I learned something from everyone. Tushar Khandker and Gurwinder Chandi taught me a lot when they were my roommates. Sardar Singh was a huge influence because we played similar positions. I also learned from international stars like Moritz Fürste and Barry Middleton during my club career."
These experiences helped him endure low points, such as the 2012 London Olympics where India finished last without a win. "It was a wake-up call. Playing against the world’s best teams made me realise how much we needed to improve — both individually and collectively," said the midfielder, who has since played in four Olympics. "That experience motivated me to work harder on my fitness and overall game. The years that followed were very productive, and we gradually started achieving success, including winning the Asian Games gold and our first FIH medal in the Pro League."
Despite many accolades, one memory stands out: "Winning the Olympic bronze medal in Tokyo was a dream come true. Indian hockey had waited 41 years for an Olympic medal and to be part of that achievement was very special," said the senior-most player in the team.
Even after becoming India's most-capped player, Manpreet believes there is unfinished business and continues to chase bigger goals, including a World Cup medal and Olympic gold. "That hunger still exists today. Even after 413 matches, if I get injured, I will do everything possible to return to the field. Representing India remains my greatest motivation," he added.
